Gov. Scott Honors 380 Veterans with Governor’s Veterans Service Award

AVON PARK, Fla. – Governor Rick Scott today, joined by Colonel John Rooney and Mike Prendergast, FDVA Executive Director, awarded 380 Florida veterans with the Governor’s Veterans Service Award for their service to Florida and the nation.

Governor Scott said, “This week we had the honor of presenting 2,174 Florida veterans with the Governor’s Veterans Service Award. These courageous men and woman have made countless sacrifices in their service to our families and country. That is why we will keep working to give them the thanks they deserve and to ensure they have the opportunities needed to live the American Dream in the Sunshine State.”

Mike Prendergast, FDVA Executive Director, said, “We have the privilege of honoring veterans in Avon Park today who have fought in all the conflicts over the past generations. We truly appreciate these heroes’ selfless service to this great country.”

The ceremony was held at the Avon Park National Guard Armory. During the ceremony, Governor Scott highlighted the service of Florida veteran, Joshua McKee.

Joshua McKee
Joshua McKee received a Bronze Star with a V for Valor for his bold action and calm leadership in the face of intense enemy fire. He protected the lives of his team by preventing the enemy from closing in on their position during an eight hour long engagement. McKee received a Purple Heart for wounds received while engaging an armed combatant, saving the life of a fellow Marine. Despite heavy bleeding, McKee insisted that his fellow Marine was treated before he received any treatment from medical staff on scene. McKee was medically retired from the United States Marine Corps and now lives in Lake Placid Florida.

Florida Veterans Medal
The “Governor’s Veterans Service Award” honors Floridians who have served in the U.S. Military. The front of the medal depicts the Great Seal of the State of Florida. The back of the medal displays the five seals representing the five branches of U.S. Military with an inscription that reads “Honoring Those Who Served.”